The Government of Japan has provided a new contribution of over $1.8 million to UNICEF’s emergency response for the most vulnerable children in Sri Lanka. The new contribution will enable over 600,000 children to access clean water, good hygiene and sanitation, and treatment for malnutrition.

Sri Lanka faces an economic crisis which is disproportionately affecting the poor and vulnerable households, with dire implications for children. Access to a nutritious diet has emerged as a potent threat to children. The practice of proper hygiene through handwashing with soap has been identified as inconsistent especially among the most vulnerable, further compounding the situation of children.

Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka – Mr. Mizukoshi Hideaki said, “We are pleased to announce that the Government of Japan has decided to provide additional humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka in this critical situation. With this latest contribution, the total amount of assistance provided by the Government of Japan through UNICEF has exceeded USD 3.8 million since the beginning of the economic crisis last year. Japan continues to stand by and support Sri Lanka.”

UNICEF has remained agile in its work to address the needs of children in Sri Lanka and ensuring that the most vulnerable and their families are cushioned from the worst effects of poverty, COVID-19 and now the economic crisis.

“The Government of Japan has made a significant contribution to support the efforts of UNICEF collaborating with the Government of Sri Lanka in responding to both the long- and short-term needs of children”, said Christian Skoog, UNICEF Sri Lanka Representative. “UNICEF appreciates and relies on such contributions for its work for children”.

This contribution will enable UNICEF and partners to among others:

Treat 9,000 children with severe acute malnutrition through provision of therapeutic food and support access for children with complications to effective care in 97 hospitals where in-patient treatment is prioritized.

Procure and distribute multiple micronutrient powders for 200,000 children under two years to address deficiencies.

400,000 children and their parents/caretakers reached with accurate information on proper sanitation and hygiene information.

Support 100,000 people mainly women through provision of safe and adequate water supply, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in identified Maternal and Child Health clinics.

This contribution is in line with the Japanese Government’s commitment that people live in dignity, free from want and fear through the provision of basic social services for the most vulnerable populations, including access to essential lifesaving WASH and nutrition services.